Southern Flannel Moth vs Clavigerite Ant Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Southern Flannel Moth | Clavigerite Ant Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Megalopyge opercularis | Claviger testaceus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Megalopygidae | Staphylinidae |
| Size | 25-36 mm wingspan | 2-3 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Underground |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Southeastern United States, Central America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Southern Flannel Moth
A fluffy moth covered in cream to orange-brown fur-like scales. Its larva, called the puss caterpillar, is covered in soft-looking hair that conceals venomous spines.
Did You Know?
The puss caterpillar is considered the most venomous caterpillar in North America, with stings requiring medical attention.
Clavigerite Ant Beetle
A tiny, blind, wingless rove beetle that is an obligate guest of Lasius ant colonies. It has lost its eyes and developed specialized trichomes that secrete ant-appeasing compounds.
Did You Know?
It is so dependent on ants that it cannot survive more than a few hours outside their nest.